The development of young defenders Jason Ashby and Martin Gleeson over the last 12 months has further enhanced the depth of the club’s defensive group.

Gleeson made his debut in round one against North Melbourne making an immediate impact with 14 disposals and five marks.

Ashby played his first game against Carlton in round three and showed enough to play five matches for the season.

Assistant coach Matthew Egan applauded the effort of the pair to play a number of senior games in just their second season on the senior list.

“It is crucial when someone goes down that someone else is able to step in,” Egan said.

“Gleeson to play round one in his second year is a fantastic effort.

“I think you saw the player he is going to be, he is raw, skinny and just 74kgs so he has a lot of work to do.

“He sees the game better then most, knows where to run so it is just about improving his body and getting some strength but he is a player of the future.

Gleeson last week signed a new deal to remain at the club for a further two seasons after nine matches.

20-year-old Ashby also signed a new deal earlier this season to remain at the club for a further two years.

He played five matches between rounds five and seven before spending the remainder of the season in the VFL side.

Egan is confident in the ability of the young half back who showed glimpses of his ability to use the ball well by hand or foot under pressure.

“It was great to see Jase Ashby get some games because previously we didn’t even speak about him in match committee,” Egan said.

“For him to play some games early in the season shows the development curve he is on.”

“Hopefully he has a really good pre-season. He is one of the most competitive young blokes you will meet and with those characteristics they improve quickly.”

“If he has a good pre-season hopefully he can have a good year next year.”